Students learn best when their physical, mental, emotional, and other needs are met, but schools rarely have the time and resources available to meet those needs. If schools can find a way to engage families and communities, students are more likely to succeed. But how? One answer is the community schools strategy. A community school has a set of partnerships in place that connect the school, the students' families, and the community. Community schools are more than just another model or program; they bring together community partners, parents, teachers, and administrators to assess students' needs and identify the resources that are available to meet them. Community partners and integrated services can help schools support students and families. When students' needs are met, teachers can focus on academics, graduation, and postsecondary opportunities. (Contains 4 online resources.)